Tech

Sleek iPad Case Features Powerful Built-In Speakers

Do you love to travel with your iPad, but aren't into lugging around speakers? A new Kickstarter project features a smart cover for the iPad with powerful built-in speakers that can boost the device's volume up to 300%.

Sound Cover by Hong Kong-based entrepreneur Petur Olafsson is an ultra-thin and lightweight cover that includes flat NXT stereo speakers. Olafsson — an avid iPad user who travels a lot for work — came up with the concept when he became frustrated with the device's sound quality while on the road.

"The audio quality of iPad cannot meet my needs while I'm giving presentations, doing conference calls with my remote teams or simply listening to music and movies," Olafsson told Mashable. "I wanted to create a versatile iPad speaker that can provide high quality sound and great portability."

To help fund the project, Olafsson initially turned to Kickstarter, a crowdfunding platform that helps hundreds of projects raise money for production. Although Sound Cover isn't available yet, it can be pre-ordered on the site. The standard Sound Cover is priced at $100, with an estimated retail value $129, while the wireless Sound Cover costs $155 (valued at $165).

"We have received a lot of interest from backers," Olafsson said. "We're trying to get the word out that the Sound Cover will totally change the audio experience for iPad 2 and that backers can be part of that from the very beginning."

The Sound Cover can be pre-ordered for the iPad 2 and for the next-generation iPad, which is expected to launch soon.

BONUS: 25 Cases for the iPad

iPad 2 Cases: 25+ Options for Your New Apple Tablet

In a choice of two finishes and in a variety of colors, Apple's new Smart Covers are going to be a very popular choice with iPad 2 purchasers. If however, you want something a little different, then click through for alternatives from accessory makers from all around the world.

A document pouch and stylus holder head the feature list for this glossy case that leaves all ports and controls accessible. It will be available in black with zebra stripe innards and red with a floral design.

Made using traditional book-binding techniques, the DODOcase for the iPad 2 comes with a choice of eight color linings, as well a special limited edition DODOcase commemorating the launch of the iPad 2 with a "white aesthetic."

Go retro with the Simple Slab, says Case-Mate. This two-toned case offers an angular take on iPad protection, but is actually made of "squishy and grippy" plastic. Due to be available in black, orange and blue, we predict it'll be a big seller.

This unusual case boasts a multi-function handle for a firm grip on the go. You can use the flip-out handle as a thumb ring for one-hand grip, a stand for portrait or landscape viewing, or even to hang your iPad up.

Finally, if you didn't see a case to fit in our selection then why not design your own? Snupped lets you choose from a wide variety of fabrics to make your own perfectly sized zipped sleeve, with or without handles.

Mashable
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